International Student Handbook Web

8/2/2019 International Student Handbook Web

1/46

INTERNATIONALSTUDENTHANDBOOK2011 | 2013

www.ucalgary.ca/uci


2/46

WELCOME TO THEUNIVERSITY OF CALGARY

We are pleased that you have chosen to attend the University of Calgary for your

studies, whether its a full degree program or you are coming for a term or two as

an Exchange, Visiting or Open Studies Student.

You are not alone in deciding to come to Calgary, approximately 2500 international

students from around 120 countries attended the U of C in 2010/2011.

You probably have many questions about coming to study in a new country

and we want to assure you that both university staff and other students will be

available to assist you. This handbook will answer many of your questions about

preparing to come to Canada and your stay at the University of Calgary.

You can also check out the information on our web site: www.ucalgary.ca/uci


3/46


4/462U OF C INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK

Checklist 5

The Centre for International Students and Study

Abroad (CISSA) 6Programs and Services for International Students 8

Preparing to Come to Canada 11

Understanding Citizenship and Immigration Canada

Requirements 11

Problems encountered by those who come to Canada withoutproper immigration documents 12

Applying for a Study Permit 13

No Study Permit Required For Programs Less Than 6 Months 15

Child and Spouse Study Permit 16

Renewing Your Study Permit16

Working in Canada 18

Spouses and Children Working in Canada 19

Social Insurance Number 19

Travel to or through the United States 20

Travel to other Countries 20Travel Times 21

Arriving at Calgary International Airport 21

TABLE OF CONTENTS


5/46

INFORMATION FOR ADMITTED INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS 3

Climate and Clothing Considerations 23

Medical Insurance 24

Money Matters Arranging Your Finances 27

Banking in Canada 29

Housing 30

Living On-Campus 30

Temporary Accommodation 32Living Off-Campus 34

Renting: Rights & Obligation 37

International Student Orientation 38

Graduate Student Information (Master & PhD Programs) 40

When you arrive in Canada 41Checklist 42

When you arrive at the University of Calgary 43

Churches, Mosques and Synagogues 44

Campus Map Inside Back Cover

Contact Information Back Cover


6/46

THE CITY OF CALGARY

Today Calgary is one of Canadas most liveable cities with all the advantages of

a large city with few of the problems. Calgary is home to more than one million

people. The downtown core is composed of modern high-rise buildings and many

international company headquarters. Calgarians are among the most highly

educated in Canada, ranking above the national average for post-secondary

education.

The city offers an abundance of parks, an excellent variety of sporting facilities,

good shopping, hotels and restaurants, a Performing Arts Centre, and a zoo.

Art, music, theatre, and world-class museums enrich our multi-cultural city.

Professional sporting franchises include hockey, and football. Each July, the city

celebrates its western heritage through the world-famous Calgary Exhibition and

Stampede.

Residents of Calgary often cite the Rocky Mountains as the citys most outstanding

feature. The town of Banff (127 km west of Calgary) is the gateway to thousands

of acres of national parklands, superb scenery, and some of the best sightseeing,

hiking, skiing, shing, and camping in the world.

U OF C INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK4


7/46 5INFORMATION FOR ADMITTED INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

Toassistyouinkeepingtrackofeveryt

hingyouneedto

doasyougothroughtheprocessofpr

eparingtocome

totheUniversityofCalgaryweveprov

idedthefollowing

checklist.

Onceyoureceiveyourletterofacce

ptancefromthe

UniversityofCalgary:

ApplyforyourStudyPermit(a

ndVisa,if

required)atthenearestCanadianem

bassyor

consulate

Booktravelarrangements

RegisterforInternationalStud

entOrientation

Decideonbankingarrangements:bankdrafts,

purchasetravelerscheques,creditca

rds

Registerforclasses

Applyforon-campushousing.Applyea

rlyasthis

llsupquickly

Arrangeforprivatehe

althcarecoverage

(ifplanningtobeinCanadaforlessthan

12months)



THE CENTRE FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

AND STUDY ABROAD (CISSA)

The Centre for International Students and Study

Abroad (CISSA) is located in the MacEwan

Student Centre, room 275. The CISSA

organizes programs and activities to

assist international students with

their adjustment to university and

to Canada. Our ofce also provides

service to Canadian students who wish

to study, work or volunteer in other

countries. At rst, you may nd the Uof C a somewhat confusing place, so

please, if you have questions, ask one

of the staff at the Centre for International

Students and Study Abroad - we will be glad

to help you.

The Centre for International Students and Study Abroad offers a number of

programs and services specically for international students. These servicesprovide an opportunity for you to become involved in campus life, to learn about

Canada, or to meet new friends. Programs and services include International

Student Advising, International Student Orientation, Friendship Programs,

Workshops, Campus Community Connection program, the University Study

Abroad Library, and a number of Study Abroad Programs.



Staff can be reached atThe Centre for International Students and Study Abroad

Room 275, MacEwan Student Centre

2500 University Drive N.W.

Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2N 1N4Telephone: 1 (403) 220-5581

Fax: 1 (403) 289-4409

E-mail: [email protected]

Web site: www.ucalgary.ca/uci

Student Advising

As a newcomer to Canada, Calgary and the University of Calgary, there aremany aspects of life here that will be unfamiliar. Students are strongly

advised to attend the International Student Orientation.

You are always welcome to contact the International

Student Advisor if you have any questions. Your

questions may include issues related to your Study

Permit, working in Canada, university programs

or regulations, changing educational institutions,receiving an emergency loan, dropping or

adding courses, owning a motor vehicle, banking,

shopping, health insurance, signing a lease, or social

customs.



Friendship ProgramsThere are several components to the friendship program. International

students can nd friendship through joining any or all of the following

programs:

Global Friendship Program: This program provides an opportunity

for groups of Canadian and international students to meet on an

informal basis to go skating, attend plays, concerts, or sporting

events, view a video, or simply to share hot chocolate and an

evening of board games. We also organize day trips to places

such as Banff, Lake Louise, the Royal Tyrell Dinosaur Museum in

Drumheller, Head Smashed In Buffalo Jump, the West Edmonton

Mall and the Kananaskis wilderness area for hiking and skiing.

This program is also open to the families of our international

students. Children are welcome to any events that are appropriate

for children.

Brown Bag Lunches: The Centre for International Students and

Study Abroad is open every

weekday from 8:30 am -

4:30 pm. Both local and

international students are

welcome to gather, eat lunch,

and socialize in our Centre.

Language Bank: This

program provides

opportunities for students

to teach their own language

or to learn another language

in a comfortable, informal environment. You can join the language

Bank after you arrive in Calgary.



Global Cafe: occur every Friday from 2 to 4 pm in the CISSA ofce.

Students drop in and enjoy free coffee, hot chocolate and cookies

and discuss the various topics of the day. Join us!

WorkshopsWorkshops and information sessions on issues such as immigration

regulations, ling income tax forms & successful transitions between

cultures are offered for international students.



University Study Abroad LibraryThis resource library contains university calendars and web site links for

universities from around the world, study-abroad opportunities, overseas

work and volunteer opportunities, and a wide range of helpful resources for

both Canadian and international students.

Study Abroad ProgramsThe Centre for International Students and Study Abroad assists all

departments and faculties in coordinating study abroad opportunities.

International students are welcome to use the services and programs

offered through the Centre for International Students and Study Abroad.


13/46

PREPARING TO COME TO CANADA

Understanding Citizenship and Immigration CanadaRequirements

As a visitor to Canada, it is important that you are aware of Canadas

immigration regulations and the conditions of your stay. If you fail to

comply with the conditions stated on your Study Permit you could be

required to leave Canada.

You can access the Citizenship and Immigration

Canada web site at www.cic.gc.ca. To nd the locationof the Canadian Immigration ofce closest to your home

go to the following web site: www.cic.gc.ca/english/

information/ofces/missions.asp . If you need

assistance or clarication related to immigration issues,

you can also contact the International Student Advisor.

The following information is provided to help you understand the

language of immigration.

A Study Permitis a Canadian immigration document that allows you

to study in Canada. (For further information, see Applying for a Study Permit

following this section).

A Work Permit is a Canadian immigration document that allows you to

work in Canada. (For further information, see Working in Canada following

this section).

Your application for a Study Permit or Work Permit is processed at a

Canadian immigration ofce outside of Canada. Once you have received

written notice that your application has been approved, you may proceed to

Canada. Your Study Permit will be issued and stapled to your passport

when you enter Canada. Your Study Permit and Work Permit can be

renewed within Canada.



14/46

A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) is a document that allows you to enter

Canada. It is a shiny foil sticker that is glued in your passport. You can

apply for either a single entry visa or a multiple entry visa. Not all countries

require a TRV to enter Canada.

If you are uncertain whether or not you need to apply for a TRV to enter

Canada go to the web site www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/visas.asp . Your

application for a TRV can only be processed outside of Canada.

Problems encountered by those who come to Canadawithout proper immigration documents

A foreigner would be violating immigration regulations if they were

to arrive in Canada claiming to be a visitor and then deciding

to attend or even sit-in on classes at the university.

Those who enter Canada as Visitors are very

disappointed when they discover they cannot get Study

Permits or Work Permits issued within Canada. It is only

in rare situations that these documents are issued

within Canada (see Spouses and Children in thefollowing section). It can take anywhere from a few days

to several months to receive the appropriate immigration

documents from a Canadian immigration ofce outside of

Canada. The length of time is dependent on:

in which country the applicant is a ciitizen,

whether or not the applicant will need an immigration-approvedmedical and a security check,

the ability to receive a U.S.A. Visa if the applicant

wishes toapply in person to the

nearest Canadian immigration ofce

12 U OF C INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK


15/46


outside of Canada. The nearest ofce to Calgary is located in

Seattle, USA. (You may be told to return to your home country

to apply for your Study Permit or Work Permit).

This can be a costly, time consuming, and often frustrating process. It is

important to understand students must get the appropriate immigration

documents BEFORE THEY ENTER CANADA.

Applying for a Study PermitA Study Permit gives you permission to stay in Canada for the purpose of

studying. International students must have their application for a Study

Permit approved before entering Canada. You can apply for a Study

Permit at the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate. You can download

the application for a Study Permit from the local Canadian embassy or

consulate web site. It is your responsibility to read and understand the

Guide and the Document Checklist that can be downloaded when you

download the application. The processing fee for a Study Permit is currently

$125 (Canadian). Only citizens and permanent residents of the UnitedStates, and residents of Greenland and of St. Pierre and Miquelon, may

apply for their Study Permit at a Canadian Port of Entry (at the Canadian

border).

Be sure to include all information listed on the Document Checklist when

you apply for a Study Permit. For example, your application for a Study

Permit must include the following items:

the appropriate application form

proof of identity, for example, your valid passport

your letter of acceptance from the University of Calgary,



proof of adequate funding for tuition and living expenses.

This means you will be required to prove that you have access to

$10,000 (Canadian) plus the cost of your tuition (this amount

varies according to your program) plus $4000 for your spouse and

$3000 for each dependent child coming to Canada with you.

a medical examination (if requested), a security check (if

requested),

the appropriate form of payment for the processing fee for the

Study Permit

any additional documents required by the immigration ofce where

your application will be processed

Your application is processed at the Canadian

immigration ofce in the country where you

applied. This information is then electronically

transferred to port of entries in Canada. Once your

application has been processed you will receive a

letter instructing you to proceed to Canada. You

must show this letter to the Customs ofcer when

you arrive in Canada. The Customs ofcer at the

port of entry (in Canada) will nd your name on the

electronic system, enter additional data, then print

and issue the Study Permit document, normally for

the expected length of your program of study.

When you arrive in Canada and the ofcer gives

you your Study Permit read the document very carefully. Be sure there

are no errors in the spelling of your name, your birthday, your country of

birth, or country of citizenship. Be sure the institution listed allows you to

study at the University of Calgary. Read and understand the conditions

listed on your Study Permit. And nally, check to see if the expiry date (Valid


17/46


Until) allows you enough time to complete your studies. Do not be afraid to

ask the ofcer questions and to point out any errors.

No Study Permit Required for Programs Less Than 6 Months

If you are enrolled in a program that can be completed in 6 months or less,a Study Permit is not required. An example of this would be the Exchange

student, Visiting Student, or English Language student who plans to study

for only one semester.

There are two things you need to understand if, in this situation, you choose

to study without a Study Permit.

1. If you choose this option you do not have the privilege of workingon the campus. This privilege is only offered to students who have

a valid Study Permit and are doing full-time studies.

2. You cannot continue your studies past the 6 months you are

authorized to be in Canada because you do not have a Study

Permit. Only students with Study Permits are allowed to extend

their study time (renew their Study Permit) within Canada. If after

the 6 months of study you wish to continue studying in Canada, youmust apply for a Study Permit outside of Canada; a study permit

will not be issued from within Canada. You will be required to meet

all the conditions required to receive a study permit. You may be

required to have an immigration-approved medical, and you may

be required to return to your home country to apply for your Study

Permit.

To save yourself disappointment and/or inconvenience, if you think youmight want to extend your study time past 6 months we recommend you

apply for a Study Permit even though it is not required for programs that can

be completed within 6 months. If the immigration ofcer says you do not

need a Study Permit, explain why you wish to have a Study Permit.



Child and Spouse - Study PermitThe children and spouses of international students must also hold Study

Permits if they plan to study in Canada. If you are a student in Canada

with a valid Study Permit & your spouse and children are with you, they are

permitted to apply for a Study or Work Permit from within Canada.

Special Study Permit ExemptionParents of minor children (children attending kindergarten to grade 12)

are advised to apply for a Study Permit for their children before coming to

Canada. There is a special Study Permit exemption that applies only to

minor children who are already in Canada. This means if you and the child

are still in Canada when the childs Study Permit expires you can renew the

childs immigration status as a temporary resident at a cost of$75 rather

than renewing their Study Permit at a cost of$125.

Remember, the child must have some kind of immigration status to remain

in Canada. Do not let the childs Study Permit expire without renewing their

status as either a student or a temporary resident.

Renewing Your Study PermitYour rst Study Permit - the one approved abroad - is normally valid for

the expected length of your study program. If it needs to be renewed, an

extension can, in most cases, be granted for the full length of your program.

The expiry date is extremely important. DO NOT LET IT EXPIRE. Renew

your Study Permit at least 2 months before the expiry date. Do not leave

it until the last day. Renewal information is available at the Centre for

International Students and Study Abroad http://www.ucalgary.ca/uci/

students/renewstudypermit or at the following web site: http://www.

cic.gc.ca/english/study/study-extend.asp . When you are in Canada

you can call 1-888-242-2100 and request an application be mailed to your

home address. Your application to renew your Study Permit is mailed to


19/46

an Immigration Processing Centre in Canada for processing. You can also

submit your application online. The processing fee for renewal of a Study

Permit is currently $125.

If you are presently a high school student studying in Canada you must

apply to change the conditions on your Study Permit to allow you to study at

a post-secondary institution (university, college, technical institute). Simply

follow the instructions above for renewing your Study Permit.




WORKING IN CANADA

Working on-campusStudents with a valid Study Permit are allowed to work on the campus

of the institution at which they are registered full-time. A full-time

student does not need a Work Permit to work on campus. Your Study

Permit should include a phrase stating may accept employment

on the campus of the institution at which registered in

full-time studies.

Working off-campusStudents who wish to work off campus must apply

for a Work Permit. Normally a Work Permit will not

be issued unless your application includes HRSDC

Conrmation. To receive HRSDC Conrmation, the

employer (not the student) must apply to Human Resources

Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) and demonstrate that the

employment of the foreign student will not hinder employment

opportunities for Canadian citizens or permanent residents. Aletter from an employer offering you a job is not a HRSDC Conrmation.

http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/eng/workplaceskills/foreign_workers/index.

shtml

There are some situations where a HRSDC Conrmation is not required

when requesting a Work Permit. For example:

Students who have recently received their degree from a Canadianinstitution

Students who meet the requirements for an Off-Campus Work

Permit. To see if you are eligible check our website:

http://www.ucalgary.ca/uci/students/work


21/46


Students who are admitted to U of C Coop or Internship Programs

or any other program that requires a work component

Students who become destitute (without funding) and the

situation is temporary. If this is your situation please see the

International Student Advisor.

Spouses and Children working in CanadaNote: If you hold a valid Study Permit your spouse does not require HRSDC

Conrmation when applying for a Work Permit. Your wife or husband will

be able to apply for a Work Permit for the length of time your Study Permit

is valid. Spouses (who are not students) may apply for a Work Permit that

permits them to work either on or off campus. Your spouse does not need

a job offer to apply for a Work Permit; they will be issued an open Work

Permit allowing them to work wherever they can nd employment. A valid

Work Permit must be obtained before beginning employment. Spouses can

apply for a Work Permit from within Canada.

Social Insurance NumberYou must apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) if you earn money

through work. Any family members who come to Canada with you must also

apply for a SIN if they obtain a Work Permit. The nearest ofce to obtain

a SIN is located at 1816 Crowchild Trail N.W. If you have questions about

applying for a SIN visit the following web site:

http://www.servicecanada.gc.ca/eng/sc/sin/ or call the central

ofce at 1-800-206-7218. When you apply for a SIN, be sure to take your

passport, your Study Permit (or Work Permit if you have one) and youroffer of employment (signed by you and your employer). More detailed

information is available on our web site http://www.ucalgary.ca/uci/

students/work .

For purposes of off-campus employment the student must rst obtain the

Work Permit and then apply for the SIN.



Travel to or through the United StatesStudents traveling to Calgary through the United States may require a

transit visa and should contact a U.S. embassy for information. You can nd

out about US immigration requirements at the following web site: http://

calgary.usconsulate.gov/content/index.asp . If you intend to visit theUnited States while studying in Calgary, you may require a United States

Visitors Visa. There is a United States Consulate in Calgary. This ofce will

not process applications for US Visas for those from many countries. To

avoid disappointment, you are advised to apply for a US visitor visa from the

United States Embassy in your country, before you leave for Canada.

If you are in Calgary, all applicants for any type of U.S. visa must rst make

an appointment. Information on how to set up an appointment is available

from the following web site:

http://usvisa-info.com/en-CA/selfservice/ss_country_welcome.

The U.S. consulate in Calgary is located at:

The United States Consulate General

10th Floor, 615 Macleod Trail SE

Calgary, Alberta T2G 4T8

Travelling to Other CountriesIf you are planning to travel to any other countries, check with the embassy/

consulate of that country to determine what immigration documents you will

need. If you are in Canada, you can check the Yellow Pages of the Calgary

telephone directory under Consulates and Other Foreign Representatives

for addresses and telephone numbers of those located in Calgary. Contact

information for embassies or consulates in Canada can be found at the

following web site:

http://www.international.gc.ca/protocol-protocole/reps.aspx . Be sure

to allow several weeks to obtain visas, if they are required. The regulations


23/46


vary depending upon the country you are visiting and your country of

citizenship.

Travel TimesApproximate travel times to Calgary from selected cities:

Los Angeles 3 hours

Frankfurt 9 hours

Beijing 13 hours

Hong Kong 14 hours

Sydney 19 hoursNew York 3 hours

London 8.5 hours

Tokyo 12 hours

ARRIVING AT CALGARY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

When you arrived at Calgary International Airport, you will see many White

Hat Volunteers throughout the airport. These friendly and informative guides

will provide you with a warm welcome to Calgary and will be more than happy

to help you and answer any questions you may have. In addition, there are

information kiosks located in the Arrivals area should you require assistance.

To get to the University of Calgary, you have two main options:

1. Taxi - A taxi stand can be found immediately outside of the Arrivals

area (follow the signs for ground transportation). The cost from the airport

to the University campus is approximately $35

2. Public Transit - The Calgary airport is served by public buses which

can connect you to the C-Train which is Calgarys Light Rail system. There



is a C-Train station at the University of Calgary. However, this option may be

difcult if you are carrying large amounts of luggage or arriving at night. The

cost of public transit is $2.75 and exact change is required. Please check the

Calgary Transit website (www.calgarytransit.com) for details.

If you will be living in University Residences on campus, make sure you check

residence move-in information (www.ucalgary.ca/residence/welcomehome)

and follow the instructions outlined on the Student Residences website.

During the move-in days, there will be many volunteer students at the

entrances of residence buildings to help you with your luggage, answer

questions, and provide you with directions.


25/46


NOTE: If you are arriving for the Winter (January) semester, please note that all university ofces are

closed for one week between our Christmas and New Year holidays. Most university ofces

close the afternoon of December 24 and re-open at 8:30 am January 2.

Climate and Clothing ConsiderationsCalgary has a basically dry climate, but experiences a wide range of

temperatures and climatic conditions. The outstanding features of the climate

are the moderate rainfall and snowfall, dry air, moderately cold winter, and warm

Chinook winds.

The Chinook is a dry westerly wind from the Pacic that can raise

temperatures as much as 10 degrees C in a few hours,

thus melting winter snow. The comparatively low

humidity in both winter and summer moderates

both cold and heat. Average precipitation is

43.66 cm, of which 15.40 cm is snow. Our

Summers have long days and can be hot and

dry; however, afternoon thundershowers are

common. September is usually sunny and

moderately warm (15 degrees C) during the

day time and then cool at night. Winter coldspells can be very cold (-30 degrees C) but will

average -5 degrees C.

Students should either bring, or be prepared to buy,

warm winter clothing for the months of November through March. Appropriate

winter clothing includes warm winter boots, winter parka, sweater, hat, scarf and

gloves. Students coming from warmer climates are advised to purchase winter

clothing in Canada rather than in their home country. Allow approximately $200

- $300 for the purchase of appropriate winter clothing. Centre for International

Students and Study Abroad staff will be happy to provide information for nding

good value for your clothing allowance.

Medical Insurance


26/46

In some countries, people are covered for medical or dental treatment

without any cost. They go to a doctor, dentist or hospital and they receive

treatment at no cost. This is NOT the case in Canada. In Canada, each

province has a health care plan that covers services such as physicians

fees, hospitalization and laboratory services. In Alberta the health careplan is called Alberta Health Care.

All International Students studying at the University of Calgary need to

make certain they have adequate medical insurance to cover any medical

care or accidents while they are here. If students do not have an insurance

plan they will be responsible for paying all costs for medical treatment

themselves.

A visit to a doctor can cost $40 - $60 or more and a hospital stay can cost

more than $1000 per day. A student who does not have medical insurance

would be required to pay the entire bill for these medical services.

If you have a Study Permit valid for at least 12 months, you may register

for the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). There is no cost for

this plan. The plan covers visits to the doctor, lab costs, as well as hospital

costs should you be admitted to hospital. To be eligible for Alberta Health

Care, you must provide a copy of your Study Permit that shows you are

admitted to a study program for 12 months or more. You must register

within 3 months of arrival in Alberta. Your dependants residing in Canada

may also be covered. If your spouse and family are in Alberta, their

immigration documents must show that they are authorized to be in Canada

for at least 12 months in order for them to receive Alberta Health Care. If

you renew your Study Permit to continue your studies, you will need to send

a copy to Alberta Health Care to remain covered by this plan. To arrange forAlberta Health Care, you can mail your application (with a photocopy of your

Study Permit) to the address listed on the application form or you can go in



27/46


person with your passport and Study Permit to the Calgary ofce located at

727 - 7 Avenue SW. If you have questions call (403) 297-6411. The ofce

is open from 8:15 am to 4:30 pm Monday to Friday. Mail-in application

forms are available in the Centre for International Students and Study

Abroad, MSC 275.

Further information is available at the following web site: http://www.

health.alberta.ca/health-care-insurance-plan.html

If you are a full-time student admitted to a degree

program at the University of Calgary you are

automatically registered in a supplemental

plan through the Students Union (for

undergraduate students) or the Graduate

Students Association (for graduate students).

The supplemental plan covers items not

covered under AHCIP, such as partial cost of

prescription drugs, dental work, ambulance,

etc. These plans supplement (but do not replace)

Alberta Health Care coverage. Membership is automatic

through payment of student fees. Students can pay a fee to have theirfamilies added to the student health and dental plans, however, application

must be made before the tuition fee payment deadline. Students who

wish to opt out of the student health plan will need proof of equivalent

coverage elsewhere. Check the university Calendar for opt-out deadline

dates. Additional information is available from The Students Union or the

Graduate Students Association. It is very important that you understand

the student health plan DOES NOT PAY FOR SERVICES SUCH AS

VISITS TO THE DOCTOR, LABORATORY TESTS, OR HOSPITAL VISITS.

You must apply for either Alberta Health Care Insurance (if you are eligible)

or purchase a private plan in order to be covered for these services.



If you have a Study Permit valid for less than12 months, you must

purchase a private plan through an insurance company or agent. You can

purchase this private insurance in your home country or in Canada. Medical

insurers in Canada are authorized to provide this service to those who

apply within 5 days of arriving in Canada. You can nd a list of insurance

companies with the handouts in the Centre for International Students and

Study Abroad. We do not recommend any particular plan or agent. We

advise students to talk with 2 or 3 insurance agents to compare prices and

services before making a decision on which plan to buy.

When you have a private health plan you are expected to pay for medical

costs yourself; it is your responsibility to submit receipts to your private

insurance company in order to be reimbursed. If you purchase a private

plan you may not require the student supplemental plan, as it likely

duplicates the benets offered through your private plan. Students can opt

out of the Student Health and/or Dental Plan if their private insurance has

comparable coverage. To do this you must notify the appropriate graduate

or undergraduate student health plan ofce prior to the deadline for opting

out of the plan.


29/46


Money Matters Arranging Your FinancesIt is an immigration requirement for entry into Canada that you be able

to support yourself and your dependants for the length of your studies.

You must have sufcient funds for your tuition, living expenses, and

transportation to and from Canada. International students are not eligiblefor Canadian student loans or other forms of social assistance. However go

to the U of C Student Awards & Financial Aid website for information about

awards for International Students:

http://www.ucalgary.ca/studentnance/

The cost of living in Calgary may be higher than in your country. Apart from

the cost of living in this country, uctuations in currency exchange rates

can greatly affect the buying power of the money you bring from home.

Actual costs will vary depending upon your life-style. Accommodation

and food prices may be higher than you expect. Miscellaneous costs

such as clothing, personal needs, recreation, transportation, laundry,

telephone, postage and health care should be budgeted for because they

are unavoidable and add to your expenses. Warm winter clothing is an

essential expense. It is recommended that you itemize a budget for yourself

and allow for all of these expenses.

It is recommended that students arrive in Canada with approximately

$2000, preferably in travelers cheques in Canadian or U.S. funds. It can

take two or three weeks for a bank to process your international bank draft.

Students will have some immediate expenses such as rent, food, books,

and personal expenses.

IMPORTANT: If you are bringing bank drafts made out to the

University of Calgary, the amount should only be the

amount owed for your tuition. You should bring a

separate bank draft made out to yourself in the amount

you need for living expenses.



Do not bring one bank draft made out to the University of Calgary for tuition

and living expenses. The university can only accept money to pay university

tuition. They can not refund the balance to you for your living expenses

unless you have a letter from your bank indicating what portion of the

money is for tuition and what portion is for living expenses.

There is a currency exchange at the Calgary International Airport where

some currency can be exchanged, but large transactions should wait until

you have access to a bank and the lowest exchange rate possible.

The unit of currency in Canada is the Canadian dollar ($).

The Canadian dollar divides into 100 cents. Canadian coinage is as follows:

Twoonie $2.00

Loonie $1.00

Quarter $0.25

Dime $0.10

Nickel $0.05

Penny $0.01

Paper notes are most commonly issued in $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100

bills.

Credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard and American Express and Debit

Cards (Bank Cards) are widely accepted. You may wish to apply for credit

cards when you arrive but you should be aware that occasionally studentsrun into problems by over-extending themselves nancially.

Students who experience temporary nancial difculties may apply for

an emergency loan from the International Student Advisor. These are


31/46

29

small, short-term, no-interest loans. These loans cannot be used to pay for

university expenses such as tuition or Residence Services costs. If you have

questions regarding nances, contact the International Student Advisor.

Tuition Differential FeeUndergraduate international students are assessed a tuition differential fee

(this means you will pay three times the amount Canadians pay for tuition).

Graduate students, law and medicine students pay a tuition differential

fee (this means they will pay two times the amount assessed Canadians

in graduate studies, law and medicine). Detailed information about tuition

fees is provided in The University of Calgary calendar. You can access the

calendar at http://www.ucalgary.ca/pubs/calendar/ for up-to-date

information about tuition and general fees. You should be aware that

tuition fees will likely increase over your period of study.

Textbooks vary in cost depending on the students program of study. New

books and supplies are sold at the University Bookstore. Used books can

be purchased at reduced rates from the University Bookstore and The

Students Union Used Book Store.

Banking in CanadaYou can open a bank account upon arrival in Calgary.

For detailed information about contacting major

banks near the University of Calgary go to our

web site: http://www.ucalgary.ca/uci/

students/bankingcanada . Banks and CreditUnions are generally open 10 am - 4 pm

Monday to Friday. Many are open on Saturday

& some evenings. Several types of accounts

and services are available. Ask the bank for

the best type of account for a student. Also, ask

about a bank card; this card will allow you to access

INFORMATION FOR ADMITTED INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS



bank machines throughout the city and on the university campus; these

automated bank machines allow you to make deposits and withdrawals at

various locations around the city and are open 24-hours-a-day.

HOUSING

Living on Campus

IF YOU WISH TO LIVE ON-CAMPUS IN STUDENT HOUSING IT IS

VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION EARLY!

There is a high demand for on-campus housing and it tends to ll up

very early. Check the housing web site at www.ucalgary.ca/residence for

application information, descriptions of the various accommodation options

available, accommodation rates, Dining Plan rates, contact information,

hours of operation, copies of residence contracts and the Residence

Student Handbook.

There are several different ofces that handle on-campus housing requests;be sure to direct your inquiries and applications to the appropriate ofce.

Residence Service Ofce (only for single students)

Telephone: (403) 220-3210, Fax: (403) 282-8443


Student Family Housing Ofce (only for couples and students

with families)

Telephone: (403) 220-7227, Fax: (403) 289-2587



33/4631

Conference Housing (short stay guests)

Telephone: (403) 220-3203, Fax: (403) 220-6770


If you plan to arrive before your designated check-in date be sure to

make arrangements for temporary off-campus accommodation until the

date your room is available to you. Read your offer of accommodation

to nd out what day you can move into your room. Many students are

disappointed when they arrive early only to nd they cannot get into the

room they were offered because someone else has a contract to stay until

the day your contract begins. If you plan to arrive after your check-in date

you must to notify Residence Services so your room will be held for your

late arrival. If you will be arriving outside of Residence Services ofce hoursyou must make arrangements for temporary off-campus accommodation

until the Residence ofce is open. Refer to the Temporary Accommodation

section in this handbook for a list of suggestions for temporary

accommodation.

If you wish, you can purchase bedding from the Residence Service ofce,

however, most students prefer to bring their own bedding - sheets, pillows,

and blankets. If you are assigned accommodation with kitchen facilitiesyou will be required to supply your own dishes and cooking utensils. If

you are assigned to traditional dormitory accommodation (no kitchen)

you will be required to purchase a Meal Plan. The Dining Centre provides

the Meal Plan service to students living in residence. Students living in

traditional dormitories will need to be aware that the Dining Centre closes

for approximately two weeks during our Christmas holiday season. It will

be necessary to explore other options for food service during this holiday

season.




Temporary AccommodationIf you need a place to stay while you look for permanent accommodation,the following is a list of options for temporary accommodation:

UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY SUMMER CONFERENCE HOUSING(ONLY AVAILABLE MAY AUGUST)

http://www.ucalgary.ca/hotelandconference/

CALGARY INTERNATIONAL YOUTH HOSTEL

520 - 7 Avenue SE, http://www.hihostels.caTel: 1-866-762-4122; 1-403-670-7580E-mail: [email protected]

HOTEL ALMA - ON CAMPUS

Telephone: (403) 220-2588Email: [email protected] site: http://www.hotelalma.ca/

MOTEL VILLAGE

(16th Avenue / Banff Trail NW, 15 minute walk from campus, South onCrowchild Trail)

ROYAL WAYNE MOTOR INN

Telephone: (403) 289-6651, Fax (403) 289-6709,E-mail: [email protected] Free: 1-800-834-8423, Web site:http://www.royalwaynemotorinn.com

SUPER 8 MOTEL

Telephone: (403) 289-9211, Fax (403) 282-7824, E-mail:[email protected] Free: 1-800-800-8000, Web site: http://www.super8.com


35/4633

TRAVELODGE

Telephone: (403) 289-6600, Fax (403) 289-6767, E-mail:[email protected] Free: 1-800-578-7878, Web site: http://www.travelodge.ca

RAMADA LIMITED

Telephone: (403) 289-5571, Fax (403) 282-9305,Email: [email protected] Free: 1-800-272-6232, Web site: http://www.ramada.ca

COMFORT INN & SUITES UNIVERSITY

Telephone: (403) 289-2581, Fax (403) 284-3897,E-mail: [email protected] Toll Free: 1-877-424-6423Web site: http://www.comfortinn.com

ECONO LODGE INN & SUITES UNIVERSITY

Telephone: 403-289-1921, Fax: 403-282-2149,E-mail: [email protected] Free: 1-800-917-7779Web site: http://www.econolodgecalgary.com

QUALITY INN UNIVERSITY

Telephone: (403) 289-1973, Fax: (403) 282-1241,E-mail: [email protected] Free Reservations: 1-800-661-4667,Web site: http://www.qualityinnuofc.com

Note: Single room costs range from $50 - $150 per night depending on the time of year.

Temporary accommodation costs are as of January 2008. Be aware that these costs mayrise slightly by the time you arrive in Canada.




Living Off-CampusOur ofce does not nd off-campus housing or homestays for students for

the following reasons:

We do not have enough staff or resources available to provide

this service.

You need to choose accommodation that will be appropriate for

your needs.

The owner of the place you rent normally requires a signed

contract from you. The signed contract will outline payment

and living arrangements. The person who signs the contract

(a lease or rental agreement) is responsible for abiding by

the agreement; we cannot do this on your behalf.

We can, however, provide information and contacts to help you nd

appropriate accommodation. Information about off-campus housing can be

obtained from a variety of sources:

The Students Union (403) 220-6551, room 251 MacEwanStudent Centre provides a list of accommodations available. The

off-campus Housing List is updated daily and can be accessed at

www.su.ucalgary.ca/ooch


37/4635

A citywide listing of accommodations can be found in the classied

section of our city newspapers, the Calgary Sun (www.CalgarySun.

com ) and the Calgary Herald (www.canada.com/calgary/

calgaryherald/).

The Centre for International Students and Study Abroad has

a small le that lists names of people who have expressed

an interest in renting accommodation to international

students. These tend to be shared accommodation and

room and board situations. When you come to the Centre for

International Students and Study Abroad you can ask to see theAccommodation Binder.

There are numerous bulletin boards on campus where students

post advertisements looking for someone to share their

accommodation.

Living off-campus requires you to allot time for traveling to and from

university. Commuting to the university from off-campus accommodation is

facilitated by Calgarys extensive public transportation system, which makes

most areas of the city accessible.

Sharing rental costs with roommates can lessen living costs. If you decide

to share accommodation with roommates, you may decide to purchase

furniture and appliances together. If this is the case, it is wise to make



38/46


agreements regarding ownership or nancial repayments in advance. This

will help avoid ownership/nancial conict if you decide to move out. When

renting accommodation, two costs will be incurred when you rst move in,

particularly if you are renting an apartment:

you will have to pay the full months rent in advance. Paymentfor accommodation is always in advance.

you will have to pay a damage deposit in advance, usually equal to

the amount of one months rent.

You are responsible for giving advance notice if you wish to vacate your

apartment. You must give your landlord notice in writing, usually one calendar

month in advance. Proper notice must be given to the landlord before the

rst day of the month. For example, giving notice on May 31 is sufcient to

terminate the rental agreement effective June 30. However, should you give

your notice June 1, you will have to pay rent until July 31. Be very careful

about these deadlines or you might end up paying an extra months rent to the

landlord. Read your rental contract carefully. Be sure you understand your

rights and your responsibilities before you sign a rental agreement.

If you leave the premises clean and in good condition, the damage depositwill be refunded to you with interest. Before moving in to your apartment, be

sure to walk through it with your landlord and make a list of all damages. The

cost to repair any damage and/or to clean will be deducted from your damage

deposit when you move out.

Your accommodation budget should also allow for the cost of electricity,

water/sewer, heat, cable TV, internet and telephone service, which may or

may not be included in the rent. As a new user of these services you may berequired to pay an initial deposit. You will then be responsible for paying a

monthly fee for use of each service. For example, Telus provides telephone

service and charges a monthly fee (approximately $25) to cover all local calls,

an installation charge (usually $31), as well as a refundable initial deposit

(approx. $100) for new users. Be aware that costs may rise slightly by the

time you arrive in Canada.


39/46


Renting: Rights and ObligationsBefore you move in to your accommodation, you and your landlord need

to agree to the terms of your rental agreement in a contract. This contract

is called a residential tenancy agreement. A written agreement is wise.

Information for landlords and tenants is available athttp://www.servicealberta.gov.ab.ca/

If you are in Canada you can also get this information by phoning

1-877-427-4088.

Calgary Communities:http://www.calgaryarea.com/

Information on Calgary communities, map, schools, crime statistics,

etc. Most accommodation are listed according to the community area.



INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ORIENTATION (ISO)

When rst arriving, the university can seem a strange place and you might

wonder how you will nd out what to do.

There are several different orientation programs you will nd extremelyhelpful to attend:

The International Student Orientation

Orientation Week: The Introduction of U of C

Grad Studies 601

Specic faculty orientations

The International Student Orientation is designed specically for all

international students (graduate, undergraduate, exchange or visiting).

Topics of discussion will include:

Banking systems in Canada

Transportation, traveling in Calgary and Canada

Shopping

Telephone services, choosing a telephone company

Things to do in Calgary

Immigration regulations, proper documents, and working in Canada

Centre for International Students and Study Abroad programs andservices

Appropriate health care plans, what you need to know about

getting medical assistance

Important U of C deadlines you dont want to miss


41/46


Services on campus such as computers, study skills support,

English language programs

The required code of conduct for staff and students

Culture shock and how it manifests itself

How the Canadian education system differs from your education

system

Information on how to register for Orientation will be posted on our NewStudents web page at: http://www.ucalgary.ca/uci/students/new_

international .

In early September, the U of C Orientation Week is offered to all new

undergraduate students (including exchange and transfer students) to

introduce them to the University of Calgary. Over the course of the four-day

program, new students are grouped with students in their program of study.

Groups are given the opportunity to nd out about their faculty, learn tipsfor academic success, become familiar with campus resources and nd out

how to get involved with the campus community. Sessions throughout the

week include library and computing introduction, managing time and stress,

academic skills, and how to make the most of your U of C experience.


42/46


GRADUATE STUDENT INFORMATION

(MASTER AND PHD PROGRAMS)

Before you leave home:

contact your supervisor, if you already have one, or the program

contact listed in your Offer of Admission, and inform him or her of

your planned arrival date in Calgary

arrange to meet your supervisor or advisor as soon as possible

after arrival to discuss your program

WHEN YOU ARRIVE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY:

obtain and read a copy of your graduate

program handbook to

nd out about important deadlines

and regulations

contact the Faculty of Graduate

Studies if you have not already

received information about

GRAD 601 - Graduate Orientation,

and the Graduate Students

Association for information about

their workshops for students receiving a

Graduate Assistantship (Teaching)

apply for a social insurance number if you will be receiving a salary

Grad Studies 601 Orientation Graduate students will receive information

about this orientation approximately one month before studies begin. In


43/46


this session you will learn about the Graduate Students Association,

registration, fees, supervision, scholarships, ethics, library services,

and information technologies.

Some graduate faculties offer their own orientation to the faculty.

Normally students are notied if their faculty has its own orientation

session.

The Graduate Students Association (GSA) represents the concerns

of graduate students on various university committees and

governing bodies. All students registered as graduate students are

automatically members of the GSA and are assessed an annual fee.

The Graduate Student Association is located in Room 350 MacEwan

Student Centre. It operates a lounge and restaurant and publishes

a newsletter.

For more information contact [email protected] or refer to

www.ucalgary.ca/GSA .

WHEN YOU ARRIVE IN CANADA

Be sure to have all of the required documents prior to leaving your

country and carry them with you; do not pack them in a suitcase.

These documents include:

your passport,

your visa to enter Canada (if required it will be in your

passport)

your immigration letter notifying you that your applicationfor a Study Permit is approved and you may now proceed to

Canada (see immigration section for exceptions),

the letter of acceptance from the university, and

proof of adequate funding.


44/46


CHECKLIST

WHEN YOU ARRIVE IN CANADA

Provide all required entry documents for immigration ofcer

upon arrival in Canada

Contact your family to let them know you have safely arrived

Visit the Centre for International Students and Study Abroad

in MacEwan Student Centre, room 275

Attend the orientation for international students

Attend U of C Orientation Week and/or Grad Studies 601

Obtain your student I.D. card

Open a bank account

Register for Alberta Health Care (if in Canada for 12 months

or more)

Obtain a Social Insurance Number (SIN) if you will be workingon campus

Talk to an academic advisor in your faculty to conrm

appropriate courses for your degree

Register for classes (if not done before you arrived)

Update your Calgary address and telephone number using

My UofC

Access the Students Union Off-Campus Housing List if you

are looking for off-campus housing

Enjoy yourself! Learn lots!


45/46

WHEN YOU ARRIVE AT THE UNIVERSITY

OF CALGARY

Visit the Centre for International Students and Study Abroad

Please take time to visit the Centre for International Students and Study

Abroad. Our staff and student volunteers are happy to answer all your

questions.

We also have numerous information handouts that will be useful to you

once you arrive at the University of Calgary. The following is a sample of

the handout information available on our web site: www.ucalgary.ca/CISSA/

intlstudents

Things to Do in Calgary

Low Budget Shopping

Looking for Accommodation

Banking in Canada

Leaving the City? Travel WithinCanada

Telephone and Long Distance Services

Getting Around Calgary

Looking for Funding

Medical Insurance for International Students

Government of Canada Services

Culture Shock and Canadian Customs

Citizenship and Immigration Canada Web Sites



46/46

Applying For a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)

Renewing Your Study Permit

Applying For a Work Permit

Contacting Immigration

Where to Look For Work on The University of Calgary Campus

Churches, Mosques, and SynagoguesMany religions are represented at the University of Calgary campus. There

is a multi-faith prayer room located in the Chaplains multi-faith centre. The

centre is located in MacEwan Student Centre, room 373, 220-5451. You

may also email one of the various religious clubs on campus. You can

nd club web site addresses at the following web site: www.su.ucalgary.ca

. When you arrive in Canada you can also check the telephone directory

yellow or white pages for a listing of the various religious organizations

represented in the city of Calgary.

DISCLAIMER

This handbook was produced to assist International Students studying at

the University of Calgary. The Centre for International Students and Study

Abroad has attempted to verify all information contained in this handbook.

The Centre for International Students and Study Abroad cannot be

responsible for any errors or omissions. Please note that it is the students

responsibility to ensure all academic and immigration conditions are met,

that he/she arrange for housing, transportation to the University, and other

necessary arrangements.

International Student Handbook Web

Documents

Transcript of International Student Handbook Web